DoD officials have yet to set a specific date for the complete changeover to a new, more secure type of ID card in the coming years, but retirees with “indefinite” cards of the old variety can have them replaced at their convenience.

The transition to the Next Generation Uniformed Services Identification Card began in July 2020, replacing paper-based cards with plastic ones boasting updated security features. It's set for completion in 2026. Those with indefinite (“INDEF”) expiration dates on their older cards were asked to wait until 2021 to begin the changeover, and office closures and other COVID-related protocols made a sometimes-challenging process even worse.

Unsure which card you have, or need? Samples and guidance are available at this DoD website.

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Military.com first reported on the 2026 deadline in mid-2022. No further details beyond that year have been set, such as whether the deadline would come at the beginning or end of the calendar, according to the Defense Manpower and Data Center's response to MOAA's queries.

Full details on the changeover and the renewal/replacement process are available at MOAA.org/IDcards. DoD provided the following guidance for those considering a renewal:

• ID card holders can visit any ID card site to exchange their older, paper-based card for the new ID.
• This website allows visitors to find nearby locations and make appointments, and find out whether a facility provides walk-in services.
• The site also allows visitors to see how far in advance they’ll need to plan. DoD officials warn some locations will have significant backlogs; a Feb. 7 search for appointments at the National Naval Medical Center Bethesda’s ID card site found no available appointments until mid-March.

[FROM MILITARY ONESOURCE: How to Get or Renew a Military ID Card: for Spouses, Dependents, Veterans and Retirees]

MOAA will continue to update its ID card guidance as new information becomes available. DoD also offers answers to frequently asked questions on the next-generation cards and more general ID card concerns, as well as suggested points of contact for more details.